In a recent city council meeting, Public Works Director Derek Gatos provided a comprehensive update on the city's capital projects, highlighting significant infrastructure improvements funded by the council's budget. Gatos expressed gratitude for the council's support, noting that despite not having a balanced budget, the use of fund balances has allowed for the advancement of critical projects.
The presentation detailed 115 capital items totaling over $10 million, emphasizing the importance of these initiatives for the city's infrastructure. Key projects included seven small sewer authority projects, ten IT upgrades, and 13 park projects, among others. Notably, Gatos mentioned a $1 million reconstruction of Fulton Street, set to begin in March, which has been in the capital plan for several years.
Other significant projects discussed included the replacement of the public safety garage, contingent on the completion of a property sale, and the installation of a new traffic signal at Robins Road, funded by federal dollars. Gatos also outlined plans for street resurfacing and the replacement of an antiquated water tower, both scheduled for completion by mid-2025.
The council members expressed their appreciation for the updates, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining and advancing these projects to prevent escalating costs in the future. The meeting concluded with the approval of bills totaling over $2.3 million and a proclamation recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15.